The Foss Waterway Seaport—the Puget Sound's premier maritime heritage, education and event center—announces it is reopening to the public on May 11, after 18 months of closure for construction.

From 11 am to 5 p.m. on May 11, the Seaport will celebrate the start of its summer season with fun family activities like sack races, sea shanty performances, and even cannon fire every hour. Special reduced admission pricing will be offered May 11 and 12 in honor of the opening weekend.

The northern one third of the building will remain open for the summer, featuring new exhibits highlighting the historic importance of Tacoma’s waterfront. Exhibits include artifacts and pictures that portray the story of the famous “Mosquito Fleet” that plied the waters of Commencement Bay and Puget Sound; a children’s learning area where young visitors can learn to tie seaman’s knots and learn about sea life below the water in Puget Sound; and an exhibit that allows visitors to see in real time the movement of ships in Puget Sound.

Starting June 22, a display of 23 classic recreational pleasure crafts will be exhibited, on loan from members of the Antique and Classic Boat Society.

The Seaport anticipates closing for the winter season in October when the next phase of continuing renovation of the Balfour Dock Building will resume.

There is parking adjacent to the Seaport and the scenic outdoor esplanade and public docks are open to the public.

The museum in the historic Balfour Dock building had been closed for ongoing renovation and seismic upgrades These included installation of a new 55-foot high glass front wall which has sparked great interest and community attention since its completion last November.